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What's New
 
Training - Wilderness First Aid Training Posted Sep. 18, 2008
Registration is now open through February 1st for the Golden Empire Council's High Adventure Training (HAT) Team's Wilderness First Aid Training program. This course meets Philmont's Wilderness First Aid training requirement.

This is definitely not your local Red Cross first Aid course! The goal of this course is to help the participants deal with medical emergencies in a wilderness setting where qualified medical assistance is more than a hour away and you are the only available medical care for awhile. Participants will benefit more if they have completed a basic first aid course.

"At the heart of wilderness medicine is improvisation", says Dr. Eric Weiss in his book "Wilderness and Travel Medicine". By definition, in all wilderness first aid emergencies you are limited to the gear you brought with you and what you can use in your environment. Participants will learn to straighten angulated fractures, clear a spine, reduce a dislocated shoulder and much more using commonly available materials and easily learned techniques.

This is a great 16 hour class for those who are looking to experience practical wilderness first aid skills in an outdoor setting. In addition to a half-day of outdoor scenario practice of first aid and emergency leadership skills, this class focuses on practicing skills in and out of the classroom.

A three-year Wilderness First Aid certification is available upon successful completion of this course, including a written closed book exam. There are pre-class reading assignments that are strongly recommended. Materials will be mailed to each participant prior to class.

The course's lead instructor, Bobbie Foster, has been involved in outdoor recreation/education for 16 years. As an employee of the University of California at San Francisco Medical School outdoor program "Outdoors Unlimited" she served as the coordinator of the whitewater canoeing program, a backcountry skiing leader/instructor, a back packing leader, budgets manager, publicity coordinator and risk management supervisor. She served as First Aid Coordinator and Lead Instructor from 1994 to 2001.

The program includes indoor and outdoor sessions at Camp Pollock on March 7th - 8th, 2009(daily).

Registration is available only through the Council's online registration system. The cost of the course is $134 which includes all instructional materials and the Philmont required ASHI certification. The course is open to all registered Scouters and Scouts over 15 years old (when accompanied by a registered adult >21 years old).

Registration closes February 1st and is limited to 24 participants so be sure to register early! Please, no late or at the door registrations. Note that the course fee must be paid by February 1st to confirm your registration.
More Information Questions - Contact Seminar Director Wilderness First Aid
Training - Webelos Leader Outdoor Training Posted Oct. 7, 2008
WHO: Webelos Den Leaders & Assistants, Cubmasters & Assistants, Committee Chair & Committee Members, Upcoming Webelos Den Leaders & Assistants (current Bear Den Leaders), interested parents.

COST: $15.00. Cost covers training handouts, drinks, snacks, dinner & dessert. No refunds.

BRING: Bag lunch, your personal hot/cold drink cup, writing materials; Cub Scout Leader Book --Webelos Handbook -- Boy Scout Handbook (if you have them). Additional clothing for changing weather conditions & the evening Campfire. The training will happen, rain or shine. “Be Prepared.”

WEAR: Your UNIFORM is always appropriate; wear comfortable, OUTDOOR shoes.

There are no facilities for children, so please leave them at home.

*Webelos Leader Outdoor Training is a supplemental training. It is REQUIRED for the Webelos Den Leader Award.*

More Information Questions - Contact Sheron Harder
Training - Basic Backpacking Awareness Seminar Posted Oct. 7, 2008
Registration is now open through January 26th for the Golden Empire Council's High Adventure Training (HAT) Team's Basic Backpacking Awareness program! Outdoor Adventure is key to the Scouting Program. The Knowledge, Skills, Techniques and Resources to safely, confidently and comfortably develop an Outdoor Program for Scouting age youth is introduced in this In-Depth Seminar.

The course content of the Basic Backpacking Awareness seminar is applicable to ALL Outdoor Activities from Day Hikes and Camporees to Car Camping and Extended Backpack Trips. Program topics include Trek planning & Leadership, Equipment & Food, Wilderness Navigation, Backcountry Living, Safety & Fist Aid considerations, and much more!

Professional quality, the High Adventure Team programs bring together experts from the Forestry Service, Rescue Ski Patrol, Outfitters, Physicians and Experienced Volunteer Scouters.

The program includes an indoor session at Camp Pollock on February 20-22 (overnight), a Navigation Workshop March 10th (evening) and an outdoor practical session on March 27-29th (weekend) where the course topics are applied on a backpacking trip.

Registration is available only through the Council's online registration system. The cost of the course is $100 which includes all instructional materials and the weekend camp site fees. The course is open to all registered Scouters and Scouts over 15 years old (when accompanied by a registered adult >21 years old).

Registration closes January 26th and is limited to 3 adults and 2 youth from each unit so be sure to register early! Please, no late or at the door registrations. Note that the course fee must be paid by January 26th to confirm your registration.
More Information Questions - Contact Seminar Director Backpacking Awareness
Council - NEW TOUR PERMITS Posted Sep. 4, 2008
Effective immediately..... National is requiring that all units use the "NEW" tour permits. You can either print it out and hand write everything in or type in the information and save it for future use. Just remember that if you decide to type in the information you still need to print it out and get actual signatures because the electronic signature feature has not gone into effect yet. You'll find the NEW permit by clicking on more information...
More Information Questions - Contact LaCrisha Loud
Training - OKPIK Cold Weather Camping Awareness Posted Sep. 18, 2008
Registration is now open through November 28th for the Golden Empire Council's High Adventure Training (HAT) Team's OKPIK Cold Weather Camping Awareness program! Snow Camping and Snow Outings can provide some of the finest Ultimate High Adventure activities. The Application of Cold Weather Camping skills begins when Temperatures approach 60degF so this program covers a lot more than snow camping skills!

Based upon the National BSA High Adventure OKPIK Training Course, this Awareness Seminar covers the Skills and Techniques for Planning and Leading a Successful, Safe and Enjoyable Cold Weather Outing. Program topics include Your Body & the Cold, Food & Water in the Cold, Equipment, Homemade Gear, Winter Travel, Avalanche Safety, Navigating in the Snow, Snow Shelter Construction, and much more!

Professional quality, the High Adventure Team programs bring together experts from the Forestry Service, Rescue Ski Patrol, Outfitters, Physicians and Experienced Volunteer Scouters. This program is designed to compliment the Backpack Awareness Seminar, the High Adventure Team's Basic Outdoor Awareness Seminar.

The program includes an indoor session at Camp Pollock on December 12th - 13th(overnight) and an outdoor practical session on January 25th - 25th (weekend) in the snow.

Registration is available only through the Council's online registration system. The cost of the course is $74 which includes all instructional materials and the weekend camp site fees. The course is open to all registered Scouters and Scouts over 15 years old (when accompanied by a registered adult >21 years old).

Registration closes November 28th and is limited to 3 adults and 2 youth from each unit so be sure to register early! Please, no late or at the door registrations. Note that the course fee must be paid by November 28th to confirm your registration.
More Information Questions - Contact Seminar Director OKPIK Awareness
Training - Expanded High Adventure Web Site Posted Sep. 18, 2008
Looking for new activities & skills for your Scouts or Venturers? How about wilderness canoe camping in a remote spring fed lake? How about making your own backpacking stoves, snowshoes or a compound pulley bear bag? Maybe a 50 miler on the Bizz Johnson or Tri-Trek Trails? Want to learn about Cold Weather Camping or Wilderness First Aid? How about backcountry water treatment techniques or selecting & fitting that new expedition size pack?

You'll find all this and more at the newly expended, better than ever, can't live without (etc., etc., ...) High Adventure Training (HAT) Team web site! With over 100 pages, and growing, you'll find the schedules for the latest HAT courses, online registration info, links to over 100 HAT reviewed outdoor web sites, plans for making your own gear, and tips on just about everything outdoors.

To take a look at the HAT site, go to the Council's home page and go to PROGRAM>HIGH ADVENTURE. While you're at it, be sure to take note of the new HAT email addresses;
Applied Trek Planning: hat.atp@gec-bsa.org
Backpacking Awareness: hat.backpack@gec-bsa
HAT Chair Person: hat.chair@gec-bsa.org
Climbing Awareness: hat.climb@gec-bsa.org
Wilderness First Aid: hat.firstaid@gec-bsa.org
Cold Weather Camping: hat.okpik@gec-bsa.org
Paddle Sports: hat.paddlesports@gec-bsa.org
HAT Webamster: hat.webmaster@gec-bsa.org
More Information Questions - Contact Chairperson - High Adventure Team
Council - Sponsorship for Rebuilding Lassen Lodge Posted Sep. 4, 2008
Sponsor a Lodge Foundation Support Assembly &
Present the Scout Law for as long as the Lodge Shall Stand


One Point of the Scout Law with your name $1,500
(14 New supports available)

When the new footings are poured, your groups name or initial will be impressioned in the face of the concrete or brass plate installed along with one of the Scout Laws, Motto, or Slogan


The Scout Oath for the new Walk-in $27,500
Fund one of the existing supports a brass plaque will be added to the face Lodge Footing and the funds will go to rebuild the walk-in. The goal: $27,500

On My Honor $ 2,500
I Will Do My Best $ 2,500
To Do My Duty $ 2,500
To God and My Country $ 5,000
To Help Other People At All Times $ 5,000
To Obey The Scout Law $ 2,500
To Keep Myself Physically Strong $ 2,500
Mentally Awake $ 2,500
And Morally Straight $ 2,500
  Questions - Contact Ron Foronda
Council - Information Every Family Should Know Posted Sep. 4, 2008
Do You Know What Your Son Does Once A Week?

Click "more information" for answers to this question.
More Information Questions - Contact David Hagar
Council - Camping and Properties Needs Assessment Posted Sep. 4, 2008
Golden Empire Council, Boy Scouts of America

Camping and Properties Needs Assessment List



Updated on November 21, 2007



GENERAL CAMP NEEDS

Camps are always in need of some very basic needs to upkeep maintenance, and reduce the cost of operating camp.



Summer Camp:

1) Tree falling services

2) Fire Extinguisher services

3) Plastic folding tables 6 or 8 footers(200)

4) Folding chairs (800)





On going Needs

1) Lumber donations –2x4, 2x8, 2x10, 2x12, 4x4 posts, plywood, siding.

2) Loggers to remove and discard trees

3) Use of a log splitter (or purchase of one)

4) Tree falling services

5) Lumber donations –2x4, 2x8, 2x10, 2x12, 4x4 posts, plywood, siding.

6) Nails - number 5, 6, 8, 10, 12

7) Vehicle maintenance work for camp truck, generator, tractor, riding mowers

8) Cleaning supplies (for windows, toilets, bathrooms, carpets, stoves, dishes)

9) Heavy equipment (front end loaders, dump trucks, flatbed, box truck)

10) Generators 25-30 KVW

11) Paint (exterior & interior)

12) Use of a transportation vehicle – shipping container

13) Use of a Tow truck

14) Conex boxes or shipping container for onsite storage

15) Waste water consultants / engineering services

16) Structural and electrical engineer services

17) Cement work

18) Metal fabricator

19) Painting services

20) Septic and Sewer services

21) Plumbing services

22) 4 – 10 to 16 ft long trailer with sides (for hauling)

23) Coin operated washer and dryers

24) Basic mechanical and construction tools



CAMP WINTON

Winton is located on Bear River Reservoir in the El Dorado National Forest off Highway 88 north of Jackson at an elevation of 5,900'. It is accessible only by foot or by boat. Scouts hike in and the camp boat transports the troop gear. Units must provide their own tents and camping gear. Each unit has its own campsite and Scouts eat cafeteria style on picnic tables under the whispering pines along the beautiful waterfront. Aquatic activities are a specialty at Winton, with water-skiing, sailing and canoeing among those of special interest to scouts. For the high adventurers, overnight canoe treks are available. A first-year scout program, Air-Rifle target shooting, archery, arts and crafts, rock climbing, and nature round out the traditional program at Winton. New to the camp is the introduction of the Photography merit badge which allows Scouts to take pictures for closing show, learn about photography, and how to edit it.



NEEDS OF THE CAMP (list in order of priority / need)

1) Canoes and sail boats in good or great working condition. Working parts, and in good repairs a must.

2) Computers for the Photography merit badge.

3) Stackable convection ovens

4) Boat docks

5) Metro racks for food and dish storage

6) Food processor

7) 12 wheel barrels

8) 12 pull transport carts

9) .22 cal. Rifles and 10 and 12 gage shotguns







CAMP POLLOCK

Troops seeking to individualize short-term camping outings can use this base for such activities as rafting on the American River, biking on the Jedediah Smith Memorial Bicycle Trail, or city – hiking in California’s historic State capitol. Tour Old Sacramento’s Train Museum then hop on the light rail for a ride back to Camp Pollock. Campsites are available year-round by reservation only.



Pollock represents a change of pace in its camp environment in an urban setting. Located in the heart of Sacramento along the American River, Camp Pollock offers the escape from the bustle of the city at the end of each day's outing, offering a unique camping experience.



NEEDS OF THE CAMP (list in order of priority / need)

1) Irrigation system for watering 15 acres of grass

2) Tree pruning services

3) Leaf blower

4) 3000 psi pressure washer

5) 500 feet of fencing chain

6) 4 new chain saws

7) Storage racks

8) Signage company to make directional, building markers, and informational signage.

9) 20-30 ft debris boxes

10) Riding movers













CAMP LASSEN

Lassen is located 45 minutes east of Chico off Highway 32 near Butte Meadows, California. At an elevation of 4800 feet amidst beautiful evergreen trees, Camp Lassen offers both Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts a traditional Scouting program. The bub Scouts experience a theme oriented program during their stay. The Boy Scouts not only earn merit badges, but have the opportunity to face an outstanding C.O.P.E. (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience) course. Horseback riding, mountain bikes, and the fantastic and unique lassen to Lassen High Adventure Backpacking Trek are available for the older Scouts. A large dining hall, cabins, wall tents or Adirondacks round out your Camp Lassen incredible stay.



NEEDS OF THE CAMP (list in order of priority / need)

1) Transportation of Shower Building from Chico to Buttes Meadow

2) Bucket lift truck

3) Roof replacement

4) Roof repair

5) Basket ball court – posts, rings, cement pad

6) Siding for lodge

7) General Construction contractor (consultation on committee)

8) Telephone poles







CAMP PAHATSI

At 6700' altitude, Pahatsi is located just off I-80 at Soda Springs, California near Donner Summit. A full service camp, Camp Pahatsi offers a vast assortment of Scouting programs designed to appeal to a great number of differing interests: from Cub Scout resident camping to the Eagle Trail; from mountain biking to skeet shooting; from family camping to high adventure activities; there is something for all ages. Excitement abounds sailing on Donner Lake, while relaxation call be had canoeing or kayaking on Lake Kilborn. Cubs and Scouts, as well as Teams and Posts, will find challenges at Pahatsi. Each unit has its own campsite with tents provided and central dining eating.



NEEDS OF THE CAMP

See general needs above







CAMP ROBERT L. COLE

A wilderness camp located seven miles north of Cisco Grove (exit 165), California; off of I-80 at an elevation of 6700 feet! Scouts camp in tents, cooking is currently done thru central dining services at the main kitchen facility. The camp is known for its back country hiking and backpacking treks, biking treks, 50 mile trek. Treks are through its challenging mountainous terrain, sparking lakes and streams. The views are breath-taking, the lakes full of trout, and the experiences memorable. Camp Cole also is available for troop, team and crew outings, shooting sports, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming.



NEEDS OF THE CAMP (list in order of priority / need)

1) Signage Company to make directional, building markers, and informational signage.

2) Stackable convection oven

3) Commercial Grizzly grill with ovens

4) Metro racks for food and dish storage


  Questions - Contact Ron Foronda
Council - A.C.T. = Advancement, Camping & Training Posted Sep. 4, 2008
TAKING YOUR QUALITY UNIT TO THE NEXT LEVEL!

The key to a quality unit is to have frequent youth advancement and opportunities for advancement and growth, go to the out of doors frequently, and excellent trained leaders who know their job and how to get help when they need it! These are all elements of a healthy unit.

The ACT program is a BSA regional program that has been adopted by the GEC to help good units become GREAT units. 2007 was the first year we launched this program. We had almost 300 participants.

We are offering this program again this year to unit leaders, youth, commissioners, and district volunteers. Please download the form and review requirements. Please return the form by the due date to the Sacramento Service Center.

More Information Questions - Contact Terry Clippinger
Council - What to Expect at Camp in 2008 Posted Sep. 4, 2008
CAMP PAHATSI:
Since camp Pahatsi’s closure in 2002, many Scouting families and units have never experienced the great outdoors at this Boy Scout facility. We would like to invite you to visit us at camp. We are taking reservations for families, and Scouting units to use camp in exchange for service work hours.

In preparation of the reopening of camp Pahatsi, work NEEDS to be done to remove fallen trees, restore electrical needs, repair the water system, and conduct normal maintenance.

Please help us by donating your unit’s time to help us maintain, rebuild and improve your camp in lieu of a rental fee. For more information please visit Camp Pahatsi under the CAMPING tab of this website for more information and a flyer.

CAMP LASSEN:
Camp Lassen will be open this coming summer for all of its traditional activities such as nature, handicraft, aquatics, shooting sports, and Scoutcraft. Special features that you have grown to love will also be available such as a full C.O.P.E. course, mountain biking, and horseback riding treks. Our program has expanded to include Troop horseback riding excursions and Troop COPE experiences. We will be adding Cub Scouts can look forward to Lassen’s new tradition of providing great programs by participating in the Cub Resident Camp. We have invested in 10 new bikes for camp! Camp Lassen will be commemorating its 75th anniversary with a special Fourth of July celebration and special patch.

CAMP WINTON:
Camp Winton is scheduled to open with 8 full weeks. Instructions in aquatics, personal fitness, outdoor adventure, conservation, ecology, handicrafts, shooting sports are to be offered, amongst others. Canoe Treks and exciting climbing and boating experiences are being planned. The return of the Molkulme trek is to be staffed.The traditions and ceremonies like TRIBE that Winton is known for has increased in popularity!

CAMP ROBERT L. COLE (formerly Glacial Trails Scout Ranch)
We will open for three weeks as a High Adventure Base camp. The program will be rather different than in the past. Programs will be offered in the areas of rock climbing, mountain biking, swimming, boating, canoeing, hiking treks, shotgun, archery, and .22 rifles. Dining will be a combination of patrol issued commissary meals, and central dining. Brush up on your Dutch oven skills and get ready for a great adventure!
  Questions - Contact Ron Foronda
Council - Recall - Cub Immediate Recognition Kits Posted Sep. 4, 2008
We have received the following relating to defects in the Cub Scout Immediate Recognition kit (Item No. 01804). Below is a picture of the item.

The Boy Scouts of America has directed all of its Scout Shops and all retailers who sell the product to remove it from their shelves immediately and return it to us.

Purchasers will be advised by Kahoot as to further action to be taken.

Select 'More Information' at the bottom of this posting for the CPSC Recall notice.

We are requesting anyone who may have purchased the item to remove the Cub Scout Recognition totem badge from their children’s possession and, until further instructions are received, keep it in a safe place where only adults will have access to them.

Our highest priority is the safety of our youth members and their families.
.
Boy Scouts of America apologizes for any concern this matter causes parents. BSA is doing everything we can to ensure the health and safety of all those who participate in our programs.

UDATE: 10/11/07
The status of the Cub Scout Recognition Kit Recall and replacement is as follows:
The River City Scout Shop, Sacramento, issued this announcement on October 9, 2007.
Due to the recent recall of item # 01804, Cub Scout Recognition Kit, we are issuing the following:
Option 1: If you have a complete box of ten, return to your local Scout Shop for a complete refund.
Option 2: If you have an individual “Totem Badge” and would like credit for it, you will be given 25 cents per Totem Badge.
Option 3: The Totem Badge will be replaced when the new parts become available. Replacement parts will be available in 6-8 weeks.
This policy will also be applied at the Golden Empire Council Scout Shops located in Redding, Chico, and Yuba City.
Thank you for your cooperation.

More Information Questions - Contact Brian Wallace